WBRZ - Baton Rouge

PORT VINCENT - Trash buildup shut down some waterways in Livingston and Ascension parishes today.

Bayou Manchac, the Amite River and the Diversion Canal closed to recreational boat traffic at noon. Emergency officials said it was due to debris like tree limbs and plastic bottles washing downstream.

People who work and live along the river said they hate to see it close, but understand why.

"When you got boats and you put them in the water with all this debris, it will tear your boats up. You don't want that to happen, so it's best to close it down so it won't," said Brenda Guillory.

Officials will keep a close eye on the river over the weekend, and said it could reopen by Sunday depending on the weather.